Nam Theun 2 Hydropower Plant

The Nam Theun 2 Hydropower Plant is the largest and most ambitious infrastructure project in the history of Laos. Located across Khammouane and Bolikhamsai provinces, it harnesses the water of the Nam Theun River, a tributary of the Mekong, dammed on the Nakai Plateau. With an installed capacity of 1,075 megawatts, the facility has been fully operational since April 2010, exporting approximately 95% of its power to Thailand. The project was realized with significant backing from the World Bank and international investors, often cited as a benchmark for sustainable hydropower due to its rigorous social and environmental safeguards. The construction created a massive reservoir covering 450 square kilometers, which required the resettlement of over 6,000 residents and the implementation of extensive forest protection programs. Revenues from the plant are legally mandated to fund poverty reduction programs and national health and education initiatives within Laos. While it has faced criticism regarding its impact on the downstream ecosystems of the Nam Theun and Xe Bang Fai rivers, it remains a cornerstone of the nation's strategy to become the 'battery of Southeast Asia.'

Nearby cities

Thakhek

Thakhek is located on the Mekong opposite the Thai city of Nakhon Phanom.

Tha Khaek Loop

The Tha Khaek Loop is a famous multi-day motorbike circuit in central Laos, passing through caves, lagoons, and stunning karst scenery.

Seno

Seno is a major transport hub in Savannakhet Province.

Ubon Ratchathani

Ubon Ratchathani is one of the four major cities of Isan, known for its annual Candle Festival.

History & landmarks

That Sikhottabong

A monumental stupa in Thakhek on the banks of the Mekong, said to house a relic of Lord Buddha.

Kong Lor Cave

One of the most impressive geological formations in Laos, a 7.5 km long karst cave traversed by a navigable underground river.

Nature

Xe Bang Fai River

This river in central Laos is famous for having bored its way through one of the largest river cave systems in the world.

Mekong River (Thailand)

A lifeline of Southeast Asia, forming the border between Thailand and Laos.

More places

Khammouane Karst

A vast region of limestone mountains riddled with countless caves, including the Kong Lor Cave.

🗺️

Khammouane Potash Mine

A massive mining facility focused on the extraction of potassium salts, which is crucial for Asian fertilizer production.

Nakai Plateau

A plateau in central Laos, part of the Nam Theun 2 hydroelectric project, which resulted in a large reservoir.

🗺️

Phou Hin Poun National Park

An impressive nature reserve featuring steep limestone mountains, deep caves, and pristine forests in Khammouane Province.

That Sikhottabong

A sacred golden stupa on the banks of the Mekong in Thakhek, representing an important symbol of the Sikhottabong Empire.

Nakai-Nam Theun National Park

One of the largest and most biodiverse nature reserves in Laos within the Annamite Range, known for groundbreaking wildlife discoveries.

Hin Nam No National Protected Area

A spectacular karst nature reserve bordering Vietnam, concealing unique flora in its limestone formations.

Hin Namno National Park

A huge karst area on the Vietnamese border, directly connecting to the famous Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.